BUFFALO, NY – Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen continued his impressive form, recording his second consecutive shutout in the Buffalo Sabres’ 3-0 win against the Chicago Blackhawks at KeyBank Center on Thursday. Luukkonen made 20 saves, extending his shutout streak to 157:55 since the second period of a loss to the Vancouver Canucks on Saturday.
The Sabres, now at 20-21-4, have won five of their last seven games, with Luukkonen’s performance being a crucial factor. His shutout streak is the longest for Buffalo since Ryan Miller’s in 2010.
Zemgus Girgensons, JJ Peterka, and Rasmus Dahlin scored for Buffalo. Ryan Johnson contributed two assists, helping the team to control the game. Girgensons’ goal came in the second period, redirecting Johnson’s shot, while Peterka and Dahlin scored in the third to secure the win.
The Blackhawks, with a 13-30-2 record, struggled offensively and have now lost nine of their last 11 games. Despite Arvid Soderblom’s 27 saves, Chicago couldn’t generate enough offense to challenge the Sabres.
Buffalo coach Don Granato praised the team’s start, especially after a couple of days without practice due to weather-related travel restrictions. The Sabres outshot the Blackhawks 13-4 in the first period, setting the tone for the game.
Chicago’s defense faced pressure throughout, with defenseman Alex Vlasic acknowledging the team’s slow start and lack of readiness. Coach Luke Richardson pointed out the need for better offensive support to complement their goaltending.
Sabres defenseman Erik Johnson left the game in the third period after a hit by Chicago’s Philipp Kurashev, who received a five-minute boarding major. Granato mentioned that Johnson would be sore and more information about his status would be available on Friday.
With this victory, Luukkonen becomes the first Sabres goalie with three shutouts in a season since Robin Lehner in 2017-18. Dahlin’s goal, deflecting off Vlasic’s stick, added to his impressive stats as a Buffalo defenseman.
The Sabres’ next game is part of their ongoing campaign, while the Blackhawks, looking to rebound from this defeat, will continue their season with upcoming fixtures. Both teams will aim to build on their performances and improve their standings in the NHL.
